Rename File Shortcut
Rename a selected file: press ⏎ (Return) on Mac, F2 on Windows. Then type the new name and press it again.
| Action | Mac | Windows | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rename selected file/folder | ⏎ (Return) | F2 | |
| Confirm the new name | ⏎ | ⏎ (Enter) | |
| Cancel rename | Esc | Esc | |
| Rename next item (Win) | — | F2 then Tab |
The counter-intuitive Mac key
In Finder, select a file and press ⏎ (Return) to rename it — not open it. Type the new name and press ⏎ again to confirm. On Windows File Explorer, the key is F2.
Batch renaming
On Windows, after renaming one file you can press Tab to jump to the next and rename it too. macOS offers a batch "Rename…" item when several files are selected.
FAQ
How do I rename a file on Mac with the keyboard?
Select the file in Finder and press ⏎ (Return). Type the new name, then press Return again to confirm.
What is the rename shortcut on Windows?
Select the file in File Explorer and press F2, then type the new name and press Enter.